Missy Elliott Discusses Influencing Nicki Minaj

When Missy Elliott entered the music business, women were rapping about three things: sex, expensive material items, and being a ride-or-die woman to their men. Missy changed all of that and broke down doors so rappers like Nicki Minaj could follow in the newly opened path. In a recent interview, Elliott talks about influencing artists like Nicki Minaj and some seem to think the statement is a tad shady or simply taken out of context.

Missy Elliott spoke to Billboard about her career comeback and the Young Money rap star was brought up. When asked what she thought of Minaj being a direct descendant of her rap style, Missy said, “Oh, she is? Unfortunately, breaking news, there is only one Missy.” Elliott cleaned it up a bit adding, “There’s room for so many [woman MCs]. It’s important.”

Although Missy just released a video for the Pharrell-produced single “WTF,” many are still unsure if this is a true comeback for Missy Elliott. She dropped a few songs at random over the years, which would get everyone excited for her return to music only for it not to materialize. Here’s hoping Missy drops an album soon.

You can check out the rest of Missy Elliott’s Billboard interview here.